Summer Reading Challenge's impressive results

30 October 2017

Cheshire West and Chester Council Libraries Service and special guests have presented certificates and medals to children who completed this year’s Summer Reading Challenge at awards ceremonies across the borough.

The aim of the challenge is to get children, aged 4 to 11 years old, to read any six books of their choice during the summer.

Each year there is a different theme; this year it was “Animal Agents”, with a detective theme and illustrations specially created by Tony Ross.

The Summer Reading Challenge draws children into their local libraries and inspires them to read for pleasure by combining free access to books with fun social activities.

A total of 5,204 children took part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge in Cheshire West which was an increase of 3% compared to last year.

During the Challenge 158 ‘Animal agents’ themed events were held in libraries which attracted 5000 children and their families. The events were organised in partnership with organisations including Chester Zoo, Fun Science, Animals Take Over and Cheshire West Museums.

This year 45 young volunteers aged between 12 and 24 supported the Summer Reading Challenge across Cheshire West with the double benefits of acting as positive role models for children, as well as building their own confidence, love of reading, and well-being. In total they contributed 594 hours of their time to local libraries.

A Flickr gallery of photographs from some the events is now available on the Council’s Flickr page:

Councillor Louise Gittins, Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing said:
“It is wonderful to see so many children getting involved this year. Over 3,000 children completed the challenge to read at least six books each, which adds up to an impressive 18,000 books! Not to mention everyone else who got part way through the challenge. Well done to you all! Reading is a vital skill and an excellent way to learn, relax and reflect, a hobby we can all enjoy.”

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